Jan - 09 - 2025
Vietnam, a country with a vibrant cultural tapestry, is home to various festivals that reflect the deep-rooted traditions and values of its people. One such festival that holds immense cultural significance is the Vu Lan Festival. Known as the Yulan Festival or the Parent's Day, the day is a time when families come together to honor and show gratitude to their ancestors.
The roots of the Vu Lan Festival can be traced back to the compassionate act of saving one's mother from the underworld by Venerable Mục Kiền Liên. From that point onward, the Yulan Festival has evolved into a commemoration of the kindness received and an expression of filial piety towards parents and ancestors in this life and previous lives. This event takes place on the 14th and 15th days of the lunar calendar every year.
Parent's Day takes place on the full moon of the 7th lunar month every year
Beyond its religious implications, the Vu Lan Festival carries profound meanings that remind the Vietnamese people of their cultural heritage, emphasizing filial piety and reverence for ancestors. As a result, the festival becomes a humanistic celebration, reflecting the spirit of gratitude and reciprocal duty ingrained in Vietnamese culture.
In the Buddhist beliefs and Vietnamese customs, the annual Vu Lan festival involves many rituals and activities.
The rituals during this festival follow a specific order: honoring the Buddha, deities, ancestors, and offerings for wandering spirits.
This festival is a day to show gratitude to ancestors, grandparents, and parents
During the Vu Lan Festival, temples in Vietnam often organize the "Rose attached to the shirt" ceremony. Participants, regardless of age or gender, respectfully receive roses to attach to their attire. Red roses symbolize the presence of living parents, while white roses serve as a remembrance for those who have passed away. The act of pinning these esteemed flowers onto the dress signifies the utmost filial piety that children express towards their parents.
The “Rose attached to the shirt” ceremony has profound human significance
The tradition of floating lanterns (thả đèn hoa đăng) has long been an integral part of Vu Lan Festival. This ceremony is essential in Buddhism, signifying the act of praying for the deceased. Each lantern is meticulously designed, with a lit candle placed inside before being released onto the water. Along with the lanterns, well-wishes and prayers for peace are sent forth, creating a serene and meaningful spectacle.
The ritual of releasing lanterns is to pray for merit for parents
Vu Lan Festival is a celebration that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese culture, emphasizing the values of family, filial piety, and gratitude. For those seeking a transformative cultural experience, consider planning a travel to Vietnam during the Vu Lan Festival. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions, witness the beauty of familial bonds, and participate in the universal celebration of gratitude.